Capital E’s National Theatre for Children recently hosted the inaugural Creative Collider Residency, a unique programme designed to upskill local theatre practitioners and support the creation of high-quality theatre for young audiences. Fourteen Wellington-based theatre creatives attended the residency from 15-18 October at Waihōanga River Lodge and Retreat in Ōtaki. 

The Creative Collider focused on supporting theatre practitioners to develop vibrant, relevant new work for tamariki by providing guidance from skilled industry mentors and access to new networking opportunities. The programme included pitching sessions, group brainstorming workshops, and sector discussions with the aim of building new collaborations, projects, and working relationships. 

Up to three works from the residency programme may be selected for further support from the National Theatre for Children through a small seed fund and development workshops, with the finished productions to be presented at the 2023 National Arts Festival for Children. ​​​​​​​

“I just wanted to write to thank you and your team, Kerryn, Jamie and Mel for such a fabulous experience. To spend time with other artists on similar journeys, to listen to their stories and learn new ways of making work for children was a real treat and just what I needed after a difficult year. I came away feeling emotionally exhausted but inspired, enriched and very grateful to have had this opportunity” – Fraser Hooper

Participants
Back Row: Kerryn Palmer, Bridget Sanders, Fraser Hooper, Frankie Leota, Dom Flanagan, Tom Hutchison, Poppy Serano, Ryan Cundy, and Lori Leigh
Front Row: Ben Ashby, George Fowler, Kathiy Watson, Amy Atkins, and Cat Tipene.

Specialist Presenters and Mentors:
Making Theatre for Children: Sue Giles, International President of ASSITEJ (International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People)
Te Reo on Stage: Jamie McCaskill
Working with Pre-Schoolers: Mel Luckman
Well-being for arts practitioners: Kerryn Palmer ​​​​​​​